Break the silence, report the violence
Tragically, violence, harassment and hate crimes are the reality for many transgender and gender diverse people in Australia on a daily basis.
Since May 2011, the Transgender Anti-Violence Project (TAVP) has provided support to many victims of transphobia across NSW. The project, run by the Gender Centre, offers a range of free, confidential services to transgender and gender diverse people who have experienced violence. This includes physical assault, emotional abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, family violence, bullying, threats and harassment, discrimination, a partner or carer withholding medication, and being ‘outed’ as transgender against your will. Nothing is too small to report.
The aim of the TAVP is to raise awareness of transphobia, increase the rate of reporting of violence against transgender people and to provide advocacy and support to people who are victimised or discriminated against due to their gender expression.
The Gender Centre manager Phinn Borg explains that, “We know that transgender people are victims of sexual violence, domestic violence, harassment and other hate crimes every day, and that many crimes go unreported.” The TAVP urges victims of violence to report their experience and get support. “We need to know about your experiences to be able to help you and to stop this from happening to others,” says Phinn.
Experiences of violence can cause victims to feel depressed, scared and alone. This may lead to mental health issues, social isolation, unemployment, poverty and homelessness. So if you, or someone you know, have experienced any form of violence, harassment or hate crime based on your gender expression, you don’t need to remain silent. Speaking up is a start to regaining your sense of self and empowerment.
The TAVP Officer, Tahlia Trijbetz, can provide assistance throughout the process. Starting with reporting to the TAVP and/or the police, she can then help you get legal advice or medical assistance, accompany you to court, provide education, organise counselling and referrals to other services, offer follow-up support and advocate on your behalf about situations specifically related to violence, transphobia and hate crimes.
Remember, experiencing violence is not your fault. You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, no matter who you are or how you identify. The TAVP is here to support you and together we can stand tall against violence.
The TAVP is supported by partners NSW Police Force, the City of Sydney and the Inner City Legal Centre. To report transphobic violence and get help, contact the Transgender Anti-Violence Project:
Phone the Gender Centre: (02) 9569 2366 or free call 1800 069 115
Website: www.tavp.org.au
Email the TAVP Officer, Tahlia Trijbetz: [email protected]
In an emergency, contact the police on Triple Zero (000).
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Tahlia Trijbetz
Transgender Anti-Violence Project Officer
